5 Belly Breathing Exercises for Emotional Regulation

By Stephanie Cordingley – Provisional Psychologist

When experiencing intense or uncomfortable emotions (most commonly stress or anxiety) try paced belly breathing. Paced belly breathing helps us calm our bodies which helps us calm our intense emotions, so we feel safe and in control. Proactively model and practice using this strategy with your child, that way they can learn to use it as a calming strategy. A starting point is using it after exciting activities, for example playtime or sports, to help calm the body ready for the transition to the next activity or home.